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(Warning: This article contains strong language)
Cape Town - Even though the horror-comedy script sadly missed the mark (for me!), I was thrilled by the technical components and blown-way by Bianca Flanders' delivery and execution of The Demon Bride.
WHAT THE PRODUCTION IS ABOUT:
Set in the Cape winelands The Demon Bride follows a wedding party, who find themselves trapped in a haunted guesthouse, along with a newlywed bride who is possessed by an evil demonic spirit.
WHAT WE THOUGHT:
At times (more often than not) The Demon Bride felt like an awkward attempt at one of those comedy-horror flicks like, Scary Movie.
What I enjoyed most was the play's scary moments, and I will admit there were several occasions I jerked from my seat and let out a squeal. Sadly, I found these great moments to be spaced out and few.
The scary bits were mainly reliant on the technical team, who did a tremendous job using sounds effects, strobe lights, and glow-in-the-dark tricks to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
I was blown-away by the special effects, and after curtain call I was still wondering: "How did they do that?"
The play primary takes place in one setting - the guest house - and once again the technical team deserves a round of applause. The team did an outstanding job at creating, depth and dimension.
One moment I was indoors, and the next I was outside, between the abandoned vineyards and fearing an owl was going to peck out my eye!
Bianca Flanders, who plays the titular character delivered a stand-out performance, both physically and emotionally. At one point I thought she was going to jump out from behind my seat, and I was equally frightened, excited and delighted.
She completely captivated me, and I couldn't wait for her to appear back on stage.
The exaggerated humour unfortunately did not appeal to me, and the "your tongue is stuck in my butthole" jokes just fell flat.
The production appropriately carries an age restriction of 18, as the play deals with mature content, including simulated sex acts, and the words "balls," "twat," "dick," "jizz" and "fuck," being yelled throughout.
Even though the horror-comedy script sadly missed the mark (for me!), I was thrilled by the technical components and blown-way by Bianca Flanders' delivery and execution of The Demon Bride.
If you enjoy silly comedy and just want to switch off your brain for a little, then perhaps this one is for you. But we warned, probably not the best production to go see with your parents.
Please note: The Demon Bride has an age restriction of 18 and contains scenes with strong language, violence, prejudice and sex. Herbal cigarettes and strobe lighting are usede throughout the performances.
